About Mid-Iowa Council
The purpose of the Boy Scouts of America is to provide a program for boys and young adults to build character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and to develop physical and mental fitness. Scouting is designed to make a difference in the lives of boys aged 7 through 20. Scouting makes a difference by preparing youth for success as they grow.
The Boy Scouts of America is the largest volunteer organization in the world, owing its success to volunteers. The Boy Scouts of America has learned to use, not abuse, volunteers. Volunteers not only enjoy doing something that matters, but most volunteers enjoy the camaraderie of their fellow volunteers, many developing lifelong friendships in the process.
Being involved in Scouting for even a few years has a positive influence on the choices youth make and the confidence they gain. And Boy Scouts who are one of the 4 percent of Scouts that achieves the Eagle rank, they will join such dignitaries as former President Gerald Ford, astronaut Jim Lovell, Steven Spielberg, and a host of others.
Study Reveals Scouting's Best Side
The Values of Men and Boys in America, a study commissioned by the Boy Scouts of America and conducted by Louis Harris & Associates, uncovered a great deal of positive information, reinforcing what the Boy Scouts of America has been teaching since its inception in 1920. When boys who are in Scouting were directly asked what Scouting has taught them, here is how they responded:
- To take better care of the environment (89%)
- To get along with others (88%)
- To always give your best effort (87%)
- To have confidence in yourself (87%)
- To set goals for yourself (87%)
- To care for other people (86%)
- To treat others with respect (86%)
The Values of Men and Boys in America, Louis Harris & Associates